Saturday, December 31, 2005

Good News and Bad News

The bad news first. The Canes sucked ass last night. Talk about not showing up for the game, they didn't even get off the bus at the stadium. To say I am disappointed about them getting their asses kicked by 37 points is an understatement. Actually, I think I should blame it on George Bush, as that seems to be the way you do things the last few years if you don't get your way. I'm sure that some liberal left winger out there will find some type of conspiracy theory about how the big bad government and the "evil Bush administration" is to blame for the big loss last night. I prefer to not point fingers and whine and just tell it like it is...they got their asses kicked by a better team. Sorry about that...you know I couldn't write a story without at least a hint of politics!

The good news is that today is New Years Eve, which means it's party time. The 2nd Annual Margarita Lounge New Years bash is set to start in about 12 hours. We are expecting a little higher turnout than last year and I am looking forward to it. Plenty of alcohol will be flowing and I am sure there will be some good stories to tell tomorrow...I will make sure to keep everyone updated.

Thursday, December 29, 2005

Some interesting reading

I was checking out one of my favorite sites, worldtribune.com, when I came upon this article. As everyone is doing the "Best of 2005" stuff on TV, I thought I would get in the act. The article brings up some good points about the mainstream media. Here is the link: http://media.nationalreview.com/085155.asp

Tuesday, December 27, 2005

On a roll

I feel like I've been on a roll lately...five posts in six days is pretty impressive for me. I guess Christmas was an inspiration. Back on the "news of the day" subject, I came up with a few more interesting things on my cruise around the internet tonight:

1) A naked man was arrested today in Eustis, FL. I guess this dude was walking around with his boxers around his ankles yelling at people and claiming he was Satan. Why does this type of shit always happen in Florida? People down here are weird. I wish there was some video footage of this, because it would be hilarious to see. Actually, I shouldn't judge people because I've done some pretty stupid things when I've been drunk.

2) Judge throws out restraining order against Letterman. I apologize for the poaching of your thunder Pimpbling, but that crazy lady who claimed David Letterman was secretly communicating with her in New Mexico on his show was really funny. Actually...if they locked up this woman in the same cell as the guy who thinks he's Satan, I would pay whatever the pay-per-view provider wanted to see that meeting of the minds.

3) Linda Ronstadt is still performing! Yes, this is an inside joke that only one person will get, but aint that great! After all these years she's still out there. Actually, she is performing at the Kravitz center in January and I know someone who could get you tickets if necessary. Only $85 each...what a deal! I would rather pay $85 to watch the two aforementioned nutballs in the jail cell.

4) The historical importance of William Jefferson Clinton's penis. Yes, this dude will NOT go away. I guess textbook providers are debating how to correctly note this in the newest history books. I say call a spade a spade. He was only the second President in US history to be impeached by the House. Let's also remember that he was impeached for lying to a Grand Jury and for Obstruction of Justice. Even if you don't like W, you gotta admit it's good to know that he isn't getting blow jobs in the Oval Office by slutty interns.

Monday, December 26, 2005

The Day After....

Well, I feel MUCH better today than I anticipated. While the party at Mom and Dad's place was fun, everyone managed to keep themselves under contol and the hangovers should be minor. As for Christmas, I made out like a thief in a jewelry store. Clothes, Video Games, DVDs, Books, Gift Certificates, Cash. You name it and I got it this year. They were all great gifts, but the big surprise was last night when my wonderful and loving wife rolled out the new Mountain Bike. Talk about a hook-up, huh? I think I looked pretty silly just staring at it for a while, but I eventually picked my mouth up off the ground and thanked her. I hope that everyone had as good a Christmas as I did...your drunk or funny stories are always welcome in the comments section.

Sunday, December 25, 2005

Ho Ho Ho

I awoke from my wine-induced coma this morning around 7:30 am and crawled out of bed knowing perfectly well that I will be in the same situation again tomorrow morning. Actually, I will probably feel worse. As some of you know, a typical family get-together at my parents house is full of booze, fun, and usually a few hangovers. We depart for the original Margarita Lounge around 2:30pm. SIDEBAR: The term "Margarita Lounge" was originally coined when Cheryl moved to Florida and lived at my parents house while they were out of town for the summer. Thus, we officially live at the Margarita Lounge 4, but who's counting.

I just love Christmas Day in Florida. For those like Princes T who are now enjoying their first Florida Christmas, they often feel a little off-kilter the first year. But it grows on you after a while. While many are content and happy to bundle up in their sweaters and socks and stare out the window at the snow, I have moved past that nostalgic stuff. I guess 26 years of cold winters does that to you. Every Christmas I get to open up the windows and feel the warm sunshine and gentle breezes. If I feel like it, I can walk down the street and sit by the pool for a while. Or I can do nothing all day...which sounds like the plan right now. Merry Christmas everyone and don't forget about the New Years party at the Lounge!

Saturday, December 24, 2005

Thoughts on Christmas Eve....

It is Christmas Eve and my thoughts have turned away from the day-to-day grind of the stock market, interest rates, and oil prices to the happiness associated with the best holiday of the year. Alas, I still occasionally watch the news and see more ridiculous things out there. Here are some of my random thoughts the last few days:

1) Spying is supposed to be secret. That's why it's known as SPYING. It is not something that should be in the mainstream news media nor should it be something that Joe Q. Taxpayer needs to know. As I have said in the past, there is no reason that everyone in the country needs to know every single detail about every single thing happening at any time. It's just ridiculous. Does a guy who lives on the street need to know the small details of the most recent board meeting at Microsoft? No. I guess my point here is that spying is done in the interests of National Security, and while some people seem to think that National Security is something to laugh and belittle, the government takes it seriously (as they should). Let it be.

2) On a lighter note, don't go anywhere near any Mall today if you can avoid it. If you are a procrastinator, prepare for the worst day of your life. I work directly in front of the Boynton Beach Mall and it has been a mad house for the last week. Also be on the lookout for crazy old people and impatient men in large SUVs or pickup trucks. Obviously, the rules of the road do not apply to these people and they are free to cut you off or make the turn made famous in Palm Beach County...the right hand turn from the left hand lane.

3) Drink plenty of fluids over the next few days. I am heeding my own advice here and began drinking a bottle of my new favorite wine last night. With everyone off on Monday, this weekend presents a great chance to have a three-day bender and to justify it with a holiday! Talk about the best of both worlds! For anyone interested in a reasonably priced red wine, try the 2003 Terrazas Malbec from Argentina. And it's only about $10 a bottle which is even better.

4) On a serious note, everyone have a great Christmas. Like everyone else, I get excited and fired up all the time about certain issues or ideas. Certain things upset us during the year. We all disagree with each other from time-to-time, argue, or are not kind to one another. I would encourage everyone to give your day-to-day complaining a break for a few days and enjoy the good feelings of the holiday. Christmas only comes once a year and it is indeed a very special time. Enjoy it.

Thursday, December 22, 2005

Damn!

Didn't win the lottery last night so I still need to go to work today. One lucky bastard won last night and is going to have one hell of a great Christmas with their $46 Million.

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

Mr. Golden lives!

I got a chance to catch up with the great catfisherman himself last night over at Brus. I arrived at 4:30pm to Keith and the Steve Miller Band downing shots and beers. Mr Golden was in his typical work attire of flip flops, shorts and a t-shirt. For those of you who do not know Mr Golden or Mr. Miller, these guys are the stuff of legend. These two gentlemen are one of the rare breed of man who parties at 40 years old like he is a 25 year-old rock star on his first world tour. Most people tell you good stories about partying and you follow it up with a quick "bullshit". These boys are the real deal...trips to Vegas, strippers, binges for days, no sleep, waking up in a town you have never been to...that type of stuff. While I would love to repeat some of the stories, my simple blog would do them no justice.

In any case, it was good to see both of them and live in someone else's world for a few hours. It was even better when Mr. Miller threw down a hunnie on his way out the door for the tab. Maybe that's why I feel so shitty today. Either that or I'm catching that damn cold going around our office. Well, after I win the $46 Million Florida Lottery tonight all will be better...

Sunday, December 18, 2005

Winding down...

Things seem to be slowly winding down for the year around the Margarita Lounge. The work year is almost over, the Christmas shopping is done, the holiday parties are about over, and the football season has only two more weeks left.

As for me, I've had a pretty draining weekend. Friday Night I got to see Chad and the Senator for a while while Cheryl hung out with her two sisters. Saturday was a day full of doing nothing at all. I finally got off my ass around 3pm and took a shower. The office Christmas Party (screw political correctness) was in Lake Worth from 5:30-7:30. Most people, including my wife, left the Bizarre Cafe pretty wasted. We proceeded on to Two George's for a while and I ended up shuttin-er-down back here at the Margarita Lounge around 1am after being told by Dawn how much of a skirt I was and how she could drink anyone under the table. Years ago this type of talk used to fire me up. Nowadays I laugh at it because I am no longer out to prove anything. I can bet I felt better this morning though!

In any case, Pimpbling departed around 9:30 this morning after crashing on the famous "70's couch". I give him a lot of credit for realizing his drunkedness last night and not arguing like K-Delish used to. I was once again impressed with the Dophins, who pulled out another close game today. Unfortunately, they are now mathematically eliminated from the playoffs. That's OK...as I have been saying for the past few weeks,,,they are going to be a contender starting next year...MARK MY WORDS NOW! Cheryl and I wrapped up the weekend with our annual trip to Pompano Beach to see grandma and the Pompano Boat Parade. While some of my cousins attended who are real pains in the ass, John was there. John is the only one of the three cousins from the "other side" of the family who I can tolerate. We haven't seen him in a while and he at least made things more fun. Actually, he lives out in the acreage pretty close to you Pimpbling...you guys ought to hang out...he just bought a new Saleen Mustang which you would love.

So, here I sit at 9:30 ready to go to bed. Actually, I'm really impressed I was able to ramble this long without falling asleep. I'd like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (like I said before...screw the "Happy Holidays" stuff...I celebrate Christmas at the Margarita Lounge!) and a Happy New Year. Don't forget about the party on New Years Eve!

Saturday, December 17, 2005

Pathetic Cindy

Just when you thought you heard the last of my old buddy Cindy Sheehan, she has re-surfaced in Spain. I guess she recenly led an anti-war "rally" in Spain where a whopping 100 people showed up. I could get more people together for a free lunch seminar in Palm Beach County! According to the story I read, Cindy indicated that Iraq, in her opinion, is worse than Vietnam. Hmmm, lets think about that. In Vietnam there were approx. 58,000 US war dead. Iraq...about 2,300. In Vietnam the country ended up in communist control. Iraq just had it's third free election in a one year period. Obviously Cindy has run away to Europe in the hopes that someone will still listen to her.

Friday, December 16, 2005

The Big Surprise

Well, I guess the cat is out of the bag, so I might as well tell everyone. My longtime friend Kris, otherwise known and referred to as K-Delish, is going to be a daddy. Gone now are the crazy drunken nights of fun and partying and he can now look forward to changing diapers every day. Everyone at the Margarita Lounge wishes him, Jen, and little K-Delish(or K-Delishess) all the best.

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

Happiness, Frustration, and a big surprise!

What an interesting two days it has been. In general, things have been pretty positive. Busy, but positive. The market seems to be holding above 10,700 which is good news for the bulls like me who see the Dow breaking 11,000 by the middle of January. I have some new clients and accounts coming aboard this week, which us always good.

Yet, no matter how good things look, there is always that pesky cloud that shows up every now and then. My clouds are EOI and EOS. Why have these two funds (along with all the other equity option funds out there) been hammered the last two days? There is no fundamental reason and I have been scratching my head since Monday morning. Not even my illustrious research department can help out on things...I just got some lame blurb about year-end tax-loss selling. I'm going to chalk it up to a market "conundrum" and suggest backing up the truck. That's the secret that all you market watchers need to realize. If you are a buyer when nobody else likes the stock, you are going to win quite a few of those bets in the long run. That's why the big boys make money and the little guys don't...a simple matter of having the balls to pull the trigger when it feels wrong to do so.

As for the "big surprise", it sure was a BIG one today. Unfortunately for all you readers, I have sworn an oath of secrecy until a later date. Don't you HATE it when someone does that to you? Soon enough, grasshopper....soon enough. Lets just say that one of my friends recently had a life changing experience. Stay tuned for the details....

Monday, December 12, 2005

Gotta love Honest Abe...

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One of our greatest presidents speaking out from the grave. Thanks to Pimpbling for this one.

A Little Christmas Humor

Cheryl emailed this to me today. It may take a while to load or you may have to refresh it, but trust me....it's worth it in the end. Here's the link: www.wimp.com/pissedchristmas/

Sunday, December 11, 2005

Three in a Row

It's looking more and more like the Dolphins have turned the corner. While it is probably too late for this year, it gets me excited for the next couple of years. With three quality wins this season over Denver, Carolina, and San Diego, they prove that they can hang with the big boys. Pimpbling came over to root 'em on with me and actually just left a few minutes ago on his trip back to the homestead.

Speaking of Pimpbling, he had a small get-together last night at his place and I want to thank him for the great hospitality. I have never been out to the Acreage, but I came away really impressed with the area and his house in particular. To see houses in South Florida on an acre of land (that are not huge, overdone mansions) is really refeshing. My neighborhood (where the houses are on top of one another) is no comparison to the quiet and isolation out there. Pimpbling...you need to have more parties out there because it kicks ass. It's not like there isn't enough wine in the house!

Besides that, the weekend was filled with some Christmas shopping, some wrapping of said gifts, and a little relaxation around the house. With the office Christmas party coming up this Saturday and the impeding arrival of Dawn later this week (the third Soderberg sister), it should be a fun few weeks leading up to Christmas.

Thursday, December 08, 2005

A Better Day

I am so glad that I couldn't post last night. For some reason (whether it's the Blogger site, the internet or my computer I have no idea) I couldn't post anything last night. I guess that was a good thing because I was in a pretty foul mood. Three crappy days at the office spinning my wheels and making no money does that to you. The good news is that today was much better.

Since I haven't done this in a while, I figured I would point out a few stories in the news recently that caught my attention:

1) Saddam missed his trial yesterday. File this #1 on the "who really gives a shit" list. I mean, am I really supposed to get excited about this? Since when did Saddam become a celebrity worthy of all this attention?

2) That dude shot on the plane in Miami. I'm sure the ACLU is going to have fun with this one, saying how his rights were infringed on and how mean and insensitive the police are. If you are acting crazy on a plane, saying you have a bomb in your bag, refusing to give up this bag, and then refuse to listen to the police telling you they will shoot, you deserve to be shot. Maybe I'm not "sensitive" enough to people with bipolar disorders, but I call a spade a spade. Maybe it's George Bush's fault! The air marshalls did the right thing.

3) Phony Mall Santa Drops his pants. Now THATS a news story worth reading!! I guess a guy dressed up in a Santa suit dropped his drawers in front of a bunch of teens at a New Hampshire Mall the other day. I guess he did it more than once before he was finally arrested. Now, wouldn't you rather read something like that? I am sick......

Tuesday, December 06, 2005

Links...finally!

I don't know how it happened, but all of a sudden I have links on the right side of the Margarita Lounge! I have been trying to figure it out for a while, and I think I finally got it! Feel free to check out some of my friends and some of my favorite sites. I'm sure that I will add some more links as I discover them.

Sunday, December 04, 2005

A Nice Rally for a Win

For the first time all year, the Dolphins have won two games in a row! After three quarters of absolutely terrible football, Gus went down and ol' Sage Rosenfels stepped in to guide the big 4th quarter come-from-behind rally. My neighbors probably think I'm nuts for all the screaming coming out of the house over the past half hour. I could really see this game as a turning point for the year and a sign of positive things to come through the end of the season. Are the Dolphins going to win their division? No...let's not get carried away here. But with a strong finish, I can see them pulling out an 8-8 record, which would be one hell of an accomplishment for Nick Saban after the way the team has played all year.

Sorry for the lack of updates since Wednesday, but my mind has been on Christmas. I spent all day yesterday doing things around the house, getting the Christmas tree, putting up the outside lights, etc. Today involved a trip to visit my niece for her 2nd birthday and gift shopping for a few hours. Surprisingly, the 2nd half of the Dolphins game was the only football I have watched all weekend.

Today is also Princess T's 30th birthday. She has been at Sanibel Island since Friday and we are expecting her home soon. I guess she over-did it on Friday night and was pretty hungover all day yesterday. Hopefully she is feeling better today since we are planning on having a big dinner and celebration tonight.